Skip to main content

As the college baseball season gets underway, please remind our players of the health risks of smokeless tobacco. Freshman players are sometimes quite gullible and could be influenced to dip and/or chew. Use Coach Hurst from Georgia State University in Atlanta as an example of what could happen if you choose to chew. He has participated in a 15-minute videotape for the NCAA and it is required viewing by NCAA coaches. Go to Georgia State's website to get more information. I hope that the video will eventually be available for players and parents to view as well.

Last edited {1}
Original Post

Replies sorted oldest to newest

My son has requested a copy of the DVD and they will also send 100 brochures explaining the facts. He is setting up visit to the four HS varsity teams in the area to share this knowledge and give something back to the community. I also saw a clip on sports center with Derek Jeter/ David's Sunflower seed's promoting alternatives to smokless tobacco to local NYC kid's. On my son's college team about 20- 30% indulge in tobacco products. Pretty sad with all of this knowledge.
Parents,

This "habit" often times starts well before they arrive on the college campus -- it may begin in high school and is relatively easy to hide when it occurs in the dugout. I have been surprised at the habit's powerful grip. From the perspective of one that never dipped, it seems so simple to stop. But, it is nicotine and it is a drug and it is addicting.

I know men my age that started when they were teens....and have been unsuccessful in trying to quit....over and over.

As parents, we pick our battles. Certainly this one seems like the lessor of evils. But find out if your kid dips and offer to help him stop and support his struggle if it becomes one.

Steve and Catfish, thanks for your warnings.

-PD

Add Reply

×
×
×
×
Link copied to your clipboard.
×